Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.  Ever!  But it does - and it affects us in many different ways.

To help address this issue, the family of Linda Neely is gathering a collection of lesson plans designed to raise awareness of the problem and to promote healthy relationships.   Lesson plans will be readily available online at no charge to any instructor. 

What’s different about these lessons?  The lessons will support core curriculum.  For example, a lesson could be based on a piece of literature that is commonly used, or could be used, in the classroom.  The lesson might illustrate a current or historical event or parallel an important concept.  The lessons should be a natural extension of material that would likely be covered anyway. 

If you are interested in submitting a Lesson Plan,  please click on the "Lesson Criteria" link at the left.

Linda Marie Neely February 24, 1961--October 21, 2006

Background: 

On October 21, 2006, Linda Neely was stabbed in the heart at her former home on Broad Road in Syracuse, NY.  Her husband was found guilty of the murder and was sentenced to serve 25 years to life in state prison.

Linda lived a double life.  To her neighbors, clients, and fellow parishioners, she was the epitome of gentleness and joy, a delight to be near.  At home she lived in fear and a constant state of vigilance to protect herself and her children.  Following her death, a log was found documenting many nights when she and the children fled their home to find safety. 

In the months since Linda’s death, we have become familiar with a world once thought far removed.  Domestic violence impacts an estimated 15-25% of the population.  Victims walk among us smiling on the outside to hide a heart filled with fear and shame.  Once an abusive relationship begins, a psychological hold is placed on the victim long before the first act of violence.  Victims echo the same sentiments, “I just didn’t see it coming” or “By the time I realized what was happening, I was too afraid to get out.”

The pervasiveness of the problem is staggering and the destructiveness is perpetuated as generation after generation learns a pattern of cruelty they are likely to repeat.  This leaves individuals to endure personal devastation, schools to cope with students ill-equipped to focus on learning, and society to deal with escalating danger.

Intentional and direct instruction delivered proactively and within the company of peers will provide guidelines for positive behaviors that encourage healthy relationships and offer students alternative models. That's where educators can make a difference!